Friday, April 29, 2011

Mets Tejada getting his work in with the Buffalo Bisons

 (photo: slgckgc on Flickr (Original version) UCinternational (Crop)

Today's Buffalo and WNY News brought to you by Metrowny.com 

Dave Ricci, Sports Reporter

Ruben Tejada isn’t getting ahead of himself.

Sure, the 21-year-old knows he is next in line to take over the job as the New York Mets starting shortstop-but for now he’s more than happy to sharpen his skills in the 716.

The Buffalo Bisons starting shortstop, Tejada is set to inherit the job currently held by Jose Reyes.

Tejada knows full-well that Reyes, who is in the last year of his contract with the Mets, is attractive trade bait should the Mets fade from the NL East chase.

But to his credit Tejada has remained focus on his place in Triple-A.

“I concentrate on my work,” Tejada said. “You never know what may happen tomorrow. I don’t have control of that.”
Though Tejada obviously has aspirations to hang his hat at Citi Field on a regular basis he has sure great maturity by not getting swept up in speculation regarding his future.

That kind of focus has impressed Bison skipper Tim Teufel a great deal.

“He’s concentrating day-to-day,” said Teufel. “I don’t think he’s looking too far into the future. I think he has his hands full here, he has to play shortstop every day here and also swing the bat. So he’s got a job to do here and I don’t think he’s looking too far ahead.”

Making the Opening Day roster at the start of last season, Tejada played 78 games with the Mets - getting 46 starts at second base and 24 at shortstop. While Tejada dazzled with his glove, his bat was a different story as he hit just .213.

“Last year was a great experience for me. I think it made me more ready for this level,” Tejada.

Tejada returned to Buffalo and posted a respectable .280 average in 65 games with the Herd.

Along with his mature way of looking at the whole picture Tejada’s mind set was also helped by the fact the Mets skipper Terry Collins said early on that Tejada would be the starting shortstop in Buffalo and play everyday.

Thus eliminating any doubt in Tejada’s mind how he would be used.

Tejada has been in a groove in the batters box as of late, connecting with four consecutive multi-hit games.

Being utilized at the top of the order as of late, Tejada said he feels comfortable regardless of where he bats.

“No it’s the same,” he said. “Hitting in the seventh or first. Everything is mental.”

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Thursday, April 28, 2011

Third annual Hamburg Music Festival will rock the village on April 30



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Good food, great company and excellent music will abound this weekend at the third annual Hamburg Music Festival.

On Saturday, April 30, over 19 bands will perform at 25 venues in the village throughout the day, offering nearly 12 hours of live music. Proceeds from the event help fund scholarships and grants for local students.

The festival, which draws in thousands of people from the Hamburg area and beyond, is the collaboration of founders Mary Jo Duggan, Patrick McKee, Luke Mumbach and Alison Pipitone.

The group came up with the concept for the festival a few years ago, when the village was in the midst of its major reconstruction project.
“The big idea was to drive people back to the local businesses,” Mumbach said.

During a conversation on how to best regenerate business, Pipitone happened to comment on the amount of talented musicians that Hamburg has to offer. That’s when Mumbach suggested there should be a festival showcasing the village and its local talent.

The foursome quickly got to work, using their varied backgrounds to create a one-of-a-kind evening that benefits area musicians, businesses, patrons and students.

“It’s a win-win all the way around,” Pipitone said.

The festival will feature an eclectic mix of musicians, ranging from ages 15 to 80. Anticipated performances include Leeron Zydeco at Coyote Cafe, After Hours at Ten Thousand Vines Winery and John & Mary (of 10,000 Maniacs) at O’Brien’s Smokehouse.

A student musician showcase will be held at The Palace Theatre from 1:30 to 5 p.m. The students will perform on a stage equipped with amps, drums, lights and video components, thanks to a donation from the Music Exchange in Hamburg.

“The students will feel like they are performing in a professional setting,” McKee said.

The founders urged that festival goers should not confuse the students’ youth with inexperience.

Pipitone, who is a nationally-recognized musician, was impressed by the students who participated in the past showcases.

 “They have shown me that we have some young talent in the community,” she said.

Those planning to attend the festival need to purchase a $10 wristband, which grants access into all the venues, as well as transportation to and from the concerts on one of the four “music buses” that will continuously loop around the village. Duggan estimated that one could catch a ride as often as every 15 minutes.

Those wishing to only attend the student showcase can give a $2 donation in place of a wristband.

Each wristband is embossed with the phrase “If not you, who? If not now, when?” The phrase is a call to action for the residents of Hamburg to help preserve music programs in schools.

“We have the ability to keep our community strong and vibrant,” Duggan said.

In the past two years, proceeds from the Hamburg Music Festival have provided three college scholarships, seven grants for various student music-related activities, such as funding music trips for children with financial restraints; sponsored workshops and guest artist concerts; and purchased instruments for the not-for-profit Hamburg Nursery School. The founders have also reached beyond the Hamburg School District to donate funds to Buffalo Public School No. 18.

Since the music festival has quickly established itself as a yearly tradition, the founders have started to plan for the long-term. They have embarked on a fundraising initiative to replace the pianos in the Hamburg School District.

“A lot of the pianos are currently in rough shape,” McKee said.

In addition, the founders have also launched the Hamburg Music Festival’s official website, www.hamburgmusicfestival.com. McKee mentioned the possibility of setting up an online store at the site, where participating bands can sell CDs and autographed posters.

In an effort to curb pollution, volunteers will increase the number of recycling bins in the area on the night of the festival.

“Hopefully people will be mindful and respect our community,” Duggan said.

To purchase a wristband for this year’s Hamburg Music Festival, visit any of the festival venues or Meridia Credit Unions, including the Hamburg High School location. Wristbands may be also purchased online at Hamburg Music Festival’s Facebook page.

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Wednesday, April 27, 2011

'Volunteer Fair' to support charitable organizations at Eastern Hills Mall



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Eastern Hills Mall, VAWNY and WGRZ Ch. 2 will present a Volunteer Opportunity Fair, Saturday, April 30th, from 11 a..m. To 3 p.m. in the Center Court Commons. Speak with representatives and learn how you can make a difference volunteering in your community to support charitable organizations.

For further information visit www.shopeasternhills.com or call Eastern Hills Mall at 633-1600.

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Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Buffalo Museum of Science awarded $1 million grant



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The John R. Oishei Foundation has awarded the Buffalo Museum of Science with a grant in the amount of $1 million. This money will put used to strengthen the museum’s Master Plan, including the funding of two new Science Studios.

These studios will be designed to facilitate content updates to reflect the most modern advances, to keep the museum timely and relevant. Science Studios will open the door for science inquiry and connections to subjects like biomedicine, physical science, and engineering. It will be a superior forum in which to learn about what’s happening in Western New York, too.

The John. R. Oishei Foundation strives to be a catalyst for change, to bolster Buffalo’s economy and overall quality of life for residents.

“The opportunity to support the creation of engaging, hands on science that showcases the exciting innovations taking place in our community was very attractive to our foundation,” said Robert D. Gioia, president of the  John R. Oishei Foundation. “We are pleased to support this important effort that through collaboration will bring science alive, and reinvigorate one of our important cultural institutions.”

For more information about these developments, visit www.ScienceBuff.org.

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Monday, April 25, 2011

Buffalo Sabres: Do they have the resiliency to win Game 7?



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By Michael J. Petro

The Buffalo Sabres have clearly been one of the more resilient teams in the NHL in the second half of the season and into the playoffs, but the Philadelphia Flyers are pushing that resiliency as far as it can go.

The Flyers own ability to come-from-behind, even as their carousel of goalies gets increasingly complicated, has landed the teams in a Game Seven showdown on Tuesday night back in Philadelphia.

Seventh-seeded Buffalo, which powered back into playoff contention thanks to one of the NHL’s best records since the New Year, let a 3-1 lead evaporate yesterday in a Game Six in which it could have closed out the series at home in front of a raucous crowd and packed house.

Ville Leino ended Game Six 4:43 into overtime, as this time the Flyers were successful in finishing off a second consecutive miraculous comeback against the Sabres. Buffalo had taken a 3-2 series lead the game before in Philadelphia, winning 4-3 in overtime after blowing a three-goal first period lead.

While second-seeded Philadelphia may be the deeper and more talented team, it’s taken a tremendous effort by the Flyers to force a deciding game in the best-of-seven series against the underdog Sabres.

"Coming back from two and three goals in the National Hockey League is not an easy thing to do," Flyers head coach Peter Laviolette said after the game. "It’s a difficult thing to do; most of the time you cave. When you have to do it in back-to-back games, it becomes extraordinary. I can’t tell you how impressed I am with the resiliency, not just today but because we had to do it two days in a row. The last game didn’t go our way, but today it did. We don’t catch a break last game but today we did and because of it we’re still playing."

Philadelphia has now latched on to the role the Sabres played so well in the late season of the team beating the odds. The Flyers have started three different goalies in the six games and will go back to Brian Boucher in the deciding game after he replaced Michael Leighton following the first period of Game Six. Boucher went on to stop 24 of 25 shots to earn the win in the overtime affair.

Instead of folding, the Flyers have wound up using the switches in net as a rallying cry of sorts. Philadelphia has changed goalies in three of the six games, all while trailing, and come back to win two of those games.

Boucher saw his first action in the series after the Flyers’ Game One starter, Sergei Bobrovsky, was lifted in the first period of the second game. After starts in Games’ Three and Four, Boucher was replaced by Leighton in the Flyers’ overtime loss in Game Five.
The Sabres were supposed to have the clear advantage in goal with Vezina Trophy winner Ryan Miller, but the Flyers peppered Buffalo’s netminder with 49 shots.

Miller, who has already carried the Sabres to a pair of shutout victories in the series, was also the victim of some untimely sloppy play as a group of deep Philadelphia forwards never stopped breathing down the Sabres’ neck. No lead was safe for the Sabres.

Scott Hartnell, a thorn in Buffalo’s side during the series with his physical play, netted the game-tying goal with just over nine minutes remaining in the third period of Game Six. The Sabres had regained the lead on a Nathan Gerbe goal with 3:51 left in the second period. The game was evened at three apiece earlier in the period after Daniel Briere’s second tally of the game and a goal from James van Riemsdyk.

Thomas Vanek scored twice and Rob Neidermayer notched the game’s opening goal just 2:13 into the opening period to help stake the Sabres to an early 3-1 lead.

Buffalo took the difficult rout to get to the playoffs, so Sabres head coach Lindy Ruff was not surprised they’ll have to do the same to get by the first round series.

"We’ll give it everything we’ve got to win the next one," Ruff said. "We haven’t done it the easy way all year and that will have to continue."

It won’t get any easier in Philadelphia for a Game Seven in which the Sabres will play without its top centerman Tim Connelly, a game after losing right winger Jason Pominville, one of the team’s top scorers and penalty killers so far in the series.

A Brad Richards’ hit from behind sending Connelly, a player with a history of concussions, head first into the boards resulted in the center leaving the game in the second period. Richards was given only a two minute minor penalty for boarding.

After the game, Ruff called the hit a lack of respect for another player on the ice, while Miller said if Richards had previously referred to what the Sabres were getting away with as murder, the hit he put on Connelly was "mass murder."

"For being short-handed, our battle was there until the bitter end," said Ruff, who surprised the media after the game by announcing center Derek Roy, who has missed the past four months with a quad injury will return for Game Seven. "This team is going to battle until the bitter end. We’ve won two games in the their building and now we’re going to have to win one more there."

"We’ve come back and come back and that fourth goal (by the Sabres) was enough to send our team home," Laviolette said. "You come back, just to get a tough deflection on a goal to go down 4-3. How many times can you do that and come back again, but we did. I got fired up just watching."

While the Sabres wanted no part of a Game Seven going into Easter Sunday’s contest, they’ve got to believe they can take advantage of yet another opportunity to show their resilience this season.

"We got one game for everything," Ruff said.

Only question is can they be more resilient than the Flyers?

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Friday, April 22, 2011

Motorcycle Safety Month: No Time to Neglect Safety

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By: Erie County Clerk Kathy Hochul

Despite the recent “snow surprise,” Spring is upon us. Motorcycle riders everywhere are dusting off their bikes and getting ready for warm weather and the open road. It’s not only riders that need to be prepared though, drivers everywhere need to be more cautious and alert while driving. May is Motorcycle Safety Month and it’s quickly approaching, making it the perfect time to learn more before the bikes hit the road.

According to a recent study by the Governor’s Highway Safety Association, while nationally motorcycle deaths decreased by about 2%, deaths in New York rose almost 18%. With the economy beginning to show signs of recovery, it is expected that the number of recreational riders will increase. Also, with rising gas prices, officials expect the number of those who opt for the more fuel efficient bikes will also see a jump. This means more bikers on the road and more people on the roads we all need to look out for.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 160 fatal motorcycle accidents occurred in New York State in 2010, a number that continues to rise every year. At the County Clerk’s Office, we endeavor to make sure that people are aware that these frightening statistics can be reduced by following a few simple rules
-- 
    Motorcycle riders can use the “SEE” method to stay safe when sharing the road. Search around you for potential hazards, evaluate any possible hazards and execute the proper action to avoid them. Constant awareness of the road, other drivers and potential obstacles must be practiced in order to stay safe when riding. New York State Law requires that a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation be worn and reflective clothing is recommended. Most motorcycle accidents occur at dusk or after dark, so exercise particular caution when riding during these times.

    Cars and other vehicles must also look out for motorcycles. Since motorcyclists often ride to one side of the lane and the motorcycle can hide in seemingly empty areas, motorists - be aware of your car’s blind spots, carefully check before turning or changing lanes and look two or three times before making your move. Allow more following distance for motorcycles -- two or three car lengths are recommended, more if the roads are wet or visibility is poor.

    Riding motorcycles can be an exciting summertime activity, but it is also a dangerous one. Riders can benefit from a Motorcycle Safety Program rider safety class, offered at several local locations for both new riders looking to learn and experienced motorcyclists who want to pick up tips. Class locations and fees can be found at www.nysmsp.org.  The American Bikers Aimed Toward Education (ABATE) of New York Buffalo-Erie County Chapter is also  holding their 16th Annual Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Event on May 7 at 12:00 p.m. Chestnut Ridge Park, Shelter 21 near the Newton Road entrance for any riders interested in learning more about safety on the road.

 On behalf of all drivers, I urge everyone to take caution when sharing the road this summer. Ride smart, ride safe and enjoy the season. A safe summer is a pleasant one for everyone.

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North Tonawanda Lady Jacks Andrea Scibetta has skills

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By: Nate Beutel

An appropriate saying when discussing the athletic skills of Andrea Scibetta.

When you first meet her Scibetta,a senior in her second season of varsity softball with the North Tonawanda Lady Jacks, strikes you as being a shy, unassuming young lady.

There’s absolutely no outward sign of the fierce competitor within. While some lead with words, Scibetta is the type of player that simply leads by playing the only way she knows how. Giving it her all.

“I’m definitely an athlete that leads more by (my) actions,” Scibetta said. “I like to just work hard and hope that my team will follow.”

The Jacks starting right fielder, Scibetta is blessed with blazing speed that helps her run down any ball hit in her direction.

But that’s only one facet of Scibetta worth. Sure, she can track down and catch virtually everything that is hit her way, but Scibetta brings more than a reliable glove. She has a high softball I.Q. and the presence of mind to know what to do in all situations.

“She just flat-out never misses a backup,” said NT coach Larry Lash. “Outfield is the backup for all infield play. And infielders like to know (they’re) going to be backed up.”

A great believer in the importance of the defensive side of the game, Lash added that having a girl like Scibetta is invaluable. Especially with such a young team.

“We don’t have as much experience as we did in past years,” said Scibetta. “We want to show them  that you have to be quick to the ball. You have to know what you’re going to do once you get the ball. It’s a mental game and you have to be on top of things are all times.”

At the heart of it all is a girl who loves the game and pushes herself hard everyday to make herself better.
Scibetta is that model of what coaches are talking about when they say great practice player. Scibetta takes every minute on the field to heart.

“All they have to do is look in her direction and they will see how hard she works,” said Lash. “Not just in games, but in practice. She is one of the best practice players I’ve ever had.”

Though the Jacks do not have officially designated captains, with 10 newcomers to the team Scibetta is well aware that young eyes are focused on her and she must set the good example.

Extremely modest, you can tell in Scibetta’s words that she doesn’t think of herself as someone that others would look up to.

More often than not, she’ll deflect talk to senior catcher Shaina Bunker,a varsity veteran since seventh grade, as the true leader.

But its that modesty and selflessness that makes Scibetta so special to have around. And the kind of girl that can help a young team stay confident through the ups and downs of a season.

“They have great character and I know that they’re trying to get better,” Scibetta.

That’s not to say Andrea Scibetta is all business. Hardly. Striking that good balance that you want in a leader, one minute Scibetta will impart advice to a teammate. The next, she’ll be laughing with the girls as they share inside jokes.

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Erie County prepares to replace four bridges in Lancaster

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Erie County Executive Chris Collins and Public Works Commissioner Jerry Sentz announced that bridges on Cemetery and Pavement roads in Lancaster will soon be replaced. There are four bridges in total, with two on each road.  All of the bridges have been flagged for safety concerns numerous times in the past.  In light of those concerns, the county has been working to secure funding for these projects as quickly as possible.

The two Cemetery Road bridges went out to bid Thursday, April 14.  The project will cost an estimated $6 million, with 80 percent being paid by the federal government, 15 percent by the state, and 5 percent by Erie County. The two bridges will be demolished and replaced.  The road will be closed, with a detour in place, while construction is underway.

The first Cemetery Road Bridge, over Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks and Erie Street, was built in 1936 to replace an at-grade railroad crossing.  There have been numerous inspection flags on the structure in recent years, but none serious enough to close the bridge.  Lancaster School District has been detouring school buses around the bridge, which is a major inconvenience to the district.  A new 105-foot steel girder bridge will replace the current structure.

The second bridge on Cemetery Road, over the north branch of Plum Bottom Creek, was built in 1923.  Inspectors found safety concerns on the span on several occasions in recent years. The concerns were addressed and the bridge remained open.  A new 20-foot concrete box culvert will replace the current bridge.

“I am happy we were able to put the funding in place for these important bridge projects in Lancaster.  This upcoming construction highlights my administration’s focus on infrastructure maintenance and repair work.  Any time safety concerns are raised with county bridges, we work to secure funding for repair or replacement as quickly as we can,” said Collins.

“I have been working in cooperation with the county executive and public works engineers to move these projects forward and was pleased to learn that these overdue projects will be repaired now,” remarked Erie County Legislator, District 5, Dino Fudoli. “Due to the size and scope of the work, repairs to these bridges will generate many jobs. This is great news for the residents of the Town of Lancaster.”

The two bridges on Pavement Road will go out to bid Thursday, April 28. The project will cost an estimated $2.8 million, with 80 percent being paid by the federal government, 15 percent by the state, and 5 percent by Erie County.  The road will be closed, with a detour in place, while construction is underway.

Both bridges on Pavement Road were built in 1962 by the New York Central Railroad.  They have received several “red flag” warnings in recent years. While not cause for bridge closure, red flags indicate issues which require immediate repair.  The 159-foot steel beam bridge over the CSX Railroad will be replaced with a 68-foot concrete box beam structure. The other 129-foot bridge over abandoned railroad tracks will be eliminated. Crews will use compacted earth fill to come up to the road level and then pave to continue the roadway.

The estimated contract completion date of the projects on Cemetery and Pavement roads is
November 30, 2012.

“I know many citizens in Lancaster have anxiously been awaiting these projects,” said Sentz. “I’d like to thank design consultants Erdman Anthony and Urban Engineers for getting us ready to take these projects out to bid.”

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North Tonawanda hosts Canal Clean Up

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By: Sarah Seweryniak

The rain couldn’t keep volunteers away for the sixth annual Canal Clean Up, which took place Saturday, April 16.

“I am very pleased to see that the volunteers are here on a rainy and chilly morning,” said City of North Tonawanda Mayor Robert G. Ortt. “It shows the commitment with the people coming out for the sixth annual event, which is getting bigger every year.”

As part of the annual celebration of Earth Day, the event featured more than 50 volunteers, which included North Tonawanda High School students, Niagara Frontier Boat Racing Association members. The clean up, which was run by North Tonawanda Waterfront Commission Committee Chairperson Kevin O’Connor, began at Mayor’s Park off of Sweeney Street and concluded with a luncheon that was sponsored by Ortt.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to give back to a community that gives us so much,” said resident Mitch Banas, who was with his son Jackson volunteering with Boy Scout Troop No. 184.

Since North Tonawanda has been involved in the annual clean-up, the city has noticed that with each passing year there is less debris in the canal, which helps add to the beautification of the city and the waterfront as the city prepares for the beginning of the 187th navigation season.

“We usually do a good job of not only cleaning the canal side by moving debris, but even stuff that’s in the canal or dredging in the canal like logs and branches,” said Alderman Eric Zadzilka.

The City of North Tonawanda’s clean up also runs in conjunction with New York State’s annual canal clean up event. Last year more than 90 groups participated in the weekend clean up. The Canal Corporation, Parks and Trails New York and EFC seek assistance of canal communities and partners to organize clean-up activities in canal parks, along public promenades, and on the Canalway Trail.
“The growth of the Canal Clean Sweep in recent years clearly shows that local pride in the canal and the Canalway Trail is high and the spirit of volunteerism is flourishing across the state. Especially in such challenging economic times, the canal system and Canalway Trail, which are growing in prominence as a world-class tourism destination, become even more important as close-to-home recreational resources for local residents and all New Yorkers,” said Executive Director of Parks and Trails Robin Dropkin. “We are pleased to again join community groups and citizens in cleaning up the canal corridor in advance of the summer season.”

The New York State Canal System is made-up of four historic waterways, the Erie, the Champlain, the Oswego and the Cayuga-Seneca Canals, which span more than 524 miles across New York State.

For more information about events along the New York State Canal System, call 800-4CANAL4 or visit www.canals.ny.gov.

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Thursday, April 21, 2011

Woodrow Wilson Elementary School event focuses on reading



 Today's Buffalo and WNY News from Metrowny.com

By Nicole Gawel

Woodrow Wilson Elementary School recently held the Read, Write and Share event where books ruled.

Earlier in the school year, Andrea Galenski, principal at Woodrow Wilson, instated a literacy committee in order to gain ideas to be utilized during the inaugural event. It took months to finally bring the event to fruition.

“We knew that the day was going to be centered around literacy and we wanted to be sure that every activity that the children were involved in focused on reading, writing and presenting,” said Galenski.

Each grade level participated and the teachers put their students in groups.

Each group had a few weeks to plan on how they were going to present a book of their choosing to their teachers, family and classmates. Selena Soler, Stuart Mcleod, Bethanie Johns and Caitlin Cork, all third graders in Michelle Struzik’s classroom, explained the process.

Each group was able to select a book that they were already familiar with, and choose the method that they would present it, in the style of book in a bag, script it out, or a PowerPoint presentation.

“We wanted this learning experience to be rich and valuable so we emphasized the importance of using authentic literature,” said Galenski. “Every presentation was based on literature and how that literature could be brought to life through the presentation styles.”

Elizabeth Biro, Christina DiJoseph and Gregory Schulz, reading specialists at the school, created the three presentation styles that students could choose from.

“The presentation expectations became more sophisticated in the higher grade levels,” said Galenski.

“For example, the script it out in grade 5 allowed students the opportunity to create a newscast, or talk show. We really tailored the presentation options to each grade level so that they were age appropriate. The group work was non-negotiable because we wanted to give students the opportunity to work in groups, which is a lifelong skill that they need to have.”

In addition to children presenting various pieces of literature to their parents, they also had the opportunity to attend a book fair in the school’s gymnasium following the day’s presentations.

The Scholastic Book Fair truly was a carnival offering musical chairs with the prize being a book, face painting, coloring, a chance to purchase books and reading supplies, a place to take a picture on the reading coaster scenic background, made by the school’s art teacher, and enormous red and white striped containers complete with golden balloons serving as giant popcorn.

“We wanted the entire day to be focused on literacy, so we created a literacy environment in the gym,” said Galenski.

The school librarian, Jessica Stokes, along with the assistance of the publicity committee made the carnival inspired book fair possible.

“The most important part of the day for me was the incredible number of parents and guests that attended this event,” said Galenski.
“It was heartwarming to see so many parents walking through the hallways of our school and participating in the gymnasium activities and watching the students perform in the classrooms.

They say that the more students see their parents connected to school, the better that they do in school and the more that they care about the quality of work that they produce. The students were so proud of their accomplishments, which made them truly excited about sharing it with others, especially their families. I was so grateful for the support that we received yesterday and as I told students that morning, I am so proud of each and every one of them.”

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

School is Cool at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary

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By: Nicole Gawel

This year’s theme of the fourth annual Theodore Roosevelt Reader’s Theatre was “School’s Cool.”

Reader’s Theatre is both a literary and musical production based around one central theme. Jan Millard, Lisa Braniecki and Melanie Bantle, all teachers at the school, began planning for this year’s event the afternoon following last year’s production.

“These talented teachers came up with this idea, and it’s great,” said Thomas Slaiman, principal at the school. “The performances involve skits, acting, singing and reading.”

Each grade level performed a book through a condensed script and in between would act out what was happening and perform songs. This year’s books included Thomas’ Snowsuit by Robert Munsch, performed by the pre-kindergarten class dressed in winter apparel; Mr. Tanen’s Ties by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, in which all of the kindergarten class donned ties and were dressed for success; A Fine, Fine School by Sharon Creech, where the first graders wore yellow and black, the district’s colors, and had a thumb’s up day (in honor of Principal Slaiman); and the second graders performed Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! by Dr. Seuss and Jack Prelutsky where five girls wore shirts that spelled out “think,” and dancers were a cross between Michael Jackson and Justin Timberlake.

Between the skits, musical interludes were performed by Amy Fitzner and her students including, the kindergarteners performing Bubblegum: Joseph Bukowski, Joseph Cascio, Jeremy Kulesz, Andrew Maki, Francesca Marchione, Benjamin Samul, Ericc Schultz, Rhianna Slomba, Lillian Stoll, Trinity Swart and Keelin Travis; the first graders with Butterflies: Joseph Borowiak, Matthew Bradley, Sophia Crimi, Bryce Firkins, Jenna Hitchcock, Shayden Hudson, Paige Kaufman, Anthony Mancuso, Madison McElroy, Damyan Miller, Sara Mrzygold, Liam Murphy, Brenden Schmitz, Autumn Tatko, Jeffrey Vecere Owen Voss; and the second graders performed A Silly Song: Jordan Banach, Ethan D’Angelo, Patrick Dawson, Anthony DiFonzo, Cyrus Fisher, Nathan Getz, Mia Kwiatkowski, Katrina Licht, Austin McNaney, Madison Pede, Gabriel Rashko, Parker Ruzeski, Gina Sarama, Jessica Simon, Kiersten Simon, Hailey Sutton and Tabitha Swart.

“We selected the theme, School is Cool, because we wanted to honor our wonderful principal, Mr. Thomas Slaiman,” said Bantle. “The books were selected based on things he says, the way he runs our school and his personality.”

Thomas’ Snowsuit was chosen because the main character’s name is Thomas and the other character was a principal. Mr. Tanen’s Ties was about a principal who had an extensive collection of ties and was told his ties were distracting the students. Slaiman has at least 200 different ties.

He even has a tie that plays music and one that shows his love of his favorite baseball team, the New York Yankees. A Fine, Fine School and Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! Were selected to showcase two schools who thought they were the best.

“Mr. Slaiman is always complimenting the faculty, staff and students on the fine, fine job they do every day to make our school great,” said Bantle.

The students throughout the school look forward to Reader’s Theatre each year because it gives them an opportunity to sing, act, read and learn about a new book and perform in front of their parents, relatives, friends and other teachers in the school.

“Every year Jan Millard, Lisa Braniecki and myself try to create a theme that the students will enjoy and learn topics like life under the sea, books from a specific author, or even some events in history,” said Bantle.

“Our main goal is to expose them to different genres of good literature and music, both current and from the past, and work together as a school to produce a super Reader’s Theatre. It is a joy for us to create this kind of experience for the students. We always try to infuse humor, or showcase a talent, such as a second grader who danced a solo this year and had the audience cheering loudly.”

Next year’s theme is already picked out, a patriotic one, which will highlight each branch of the armed forces.

Actors and narrators of this year’s production included: Kaylee Sclesinger, Patrick Dawson, Matthew Mergenhagen, Riley and Trent Kubiak, Madison Pede, Amanda Plumley, Jayden Pace, Julia Zdyb-Lee, Timothy Witnauer, Jenna Badura, Julia Stechenfinger, Ryan Denne, Jordan Banach, Allie Shultz, Marah Rogowski, Colin Pajak, Kylie Naughton, Zachary Mochol, Hailey Sutton, Ashley Gulczewski, Ryan Schanne, Camdyn Bartholomew, Jillian Bernas, Jonathan Vu, Hailey Gworek, Gina Sarama, Christianna Konczal, Ally Beardi, Joshua Hearn, Emily Boyer, Amari Ross, Brianna Krzysiak, Mariah Roberts, Gillian Samul, Madison Miziak, Kailey Hogg, Skyler Mazurski, Ayden Betti, Kaylee Schlesinger, Miranda Johnson, Tabatha Swart, Kaylee Cork, and Katie Hamm.

Monday, April 18, 2011

Buffalo Bisons’ notebook: Pitching staff already seeing changes; Mets recall Gee

 Today's Buffalo News and WNY News from Metrowny.com

By: Dave Ricci, Sports Reporter

How quickly things can change.

On April 8, the Buffalo Bisons could boast what looked to be the strongest rotation, at least on paper, in all of Triple-A.

Reliable Dillon Gee anchored a staff that included top prospect Jenrry Mejia, 2011 Most Valuable Pitcher Pat Misch and veterans Boof Bonser and Casey Fossum.

Just a little over a week later Gee and Misch have been called up to New York, Bonser (Tommy John Surgery) is done for the season and Fossum is flirting with being a total bust.

Fossum was lit up on his first start of the year on April 11. He gave up seven runs on eight hits-including a grand slam - as the Herd suffered a humiliating 15-1 loss to Pawtucket. It was the worst loss the team ever experienced since moving into the downtown ballpark.

But, after the game, Fossum was more interested in venting about having to play in cold weather.

"When it’s that cold I don't even want to try and throw hard because you're just never loose, you're stiff," Fossum said, "and I'm not gonna cut a pitch loose when it's 20-degree wind chill and risk hurting my shoulder or anything."

In Fossum's defense he hadn't thrown to live batters in 10 days since his last spring training session, so a case could be made he wasn't stretched out enough.

That said, guy, you're with the Mets. If you hope to get up to the bigs again, and, assumably want to pitch in the post season, wouldn't you be pitching in similar cold conditions come playoff time?

Factoring in that Fossum went 2-5 with a 5.75 ERA last season in Japan you can't help but think that maybe, just maybe,his rough outing wasn't just because of the weather.

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Former Buffalo Bison Greg LaRocca stopped by the press box on April 8 with his wife, Amanda, and their two small children.

The 38-year-old native of Oswego, who played for the Bisons from 2001-03, recently retired from baseball after spending the last seven seasons playing in Japan.

LaRocca has spent his final three seasons with the Orix Buffaloes of the Japanese Pacific League. Upon retiring, Orix had offered LaRocca a job as manager. But "Roc" turned it down in favor of returning home.

LaRocca is currently serving as a scout for Orix.

Like everyone around the world, LaRocca was shocked by the devastating earthquakes and tsunami that struck Japan and said he feels fortunate that he and his family returned home when they did.

"We were texting friends of ours all night long asking are you alright? Are you alright?" LaRocca said. "It was just unbelievable."

LaRocca, who made a career of being hit-by-pitch while with the Bisons, set what he believes to be a world record by getting struck by pitches 100 times in 2008.

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Outfielder, and former No.1 prospect, Fernando Martinez (right hamstring strain) was placed on the DL on April 15. He was hitting .313 this season.

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The Bisons begin an eight-game home stand Monday when they host Rochester at 6:05.

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Sunday, April 17, 2011

William Fichtner on his walk of fame star, Cheektowaga and the Buffalo Sabres

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By Nicole Gawel

In 1956, a star was born in Long Island and later moved to Cheektowaga, graduating from Maryvale High School in 1974. He and the world just wouldn’t know of his fate until earning multiple degrees. A requirement in college led him down the right path to his destiny of acting.

Although he may have an illustrious career in the spotlight, actor William Fichtner who now lives in California still has his heart in Cheektowaga and Western New York. Fichtner was honored as the first recipient of the Buffalo Niagara Film Festival’s (BNFF) Walk of Fame-Trail of the Stars’ star Saturday, April 9 on Main Street in Buffalo between the Market Arcade Film and Arts Center and Shea’s.

“We chose Bill Fichtner as the first recipient because of his great career and connection to Western New York,” said Bill Cowell, founder and president of the BNFF.

Many from the neighborhood in which Fichtner grew up, his friends, family and even owners of the places he hung out and still visits when he comes back turned out for the ceremony. The ceremony included the color guard and singing of the National Anthem by the U.S. Air Force, Navy, Army and Marines, the unveiling of Fichtner’s star, hand and feet imprinting, autographs and pictures. A proclamation was given by Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown citing that the day would be declared William Fichtner Day.

“This is the fifth year the BNFF has been around and it is ever growing and really establishing itself as a really amazing festival and is noteworthy for all filmmakers and this year is no exception,” said Fichtner.

Roughly a year ago, Cowell contacted Fichtner and asked if he’d be interested in being honored as the first star on the trail of stars.

“It’s a great honor because it is my hometown,” said Fichtner. “I still love to come home. I feel like my heart has always been in Western New York and always will be and to have this sort of recognition for the things that I have done is incredible. We have a lot of people in the entertainment industry from WNY that are amazing. I’m humbled and honored and really excited to be back home and get to be with my sisters and my dad and my friends and to be asked by the BNFF to be recognized this way.”

After graduating from Maryvale, Fichtner went on to SUNY Farmingdale where he earned an associates in criminal justice and then transferred to SUNY Brockport where he received a bachelors in criminal justice and political science. This is where the story starts.

In order to meet all of the requirements to graduate from Brockport, Fichtner needed to take a fine arts course. He didn’t want to be stuck in a lecture hall taking intro to theatre and pursued a different route instead taking an improvisational class.

“I took the improvisational class and loved it. I had a chance to do something that I never really did in high school,” said Fichtner from his home in California. “After that class, the teacher said that if I really enjoyed it that I should do more of it.”

After graduating, while working at Mulligan’s Beach Club in Sunset Bay, Fichtner contemplated life and what he was going to do after school. His college sweetheart gave him a gift of a paperback book entitled How To Be A Working Actor. Fichtner read it over and over again that summer. The book discussed what steps were to be taken to become a professional actor.

“Back in the 1970s when I graduated college it wasn’t like it is today, the age of information,” said Fichtner. “If someone said they were going to be an actor, you looked at them like they were from Mars. It wasn’t something that people did. You did other things in your life. That was for someone else. It’s different today. People have access to everything and anything is a possibility now.”

Fichtner read the book, moved to New York City, got a job waiting tables and enrolled in the American Academy of the Dramatic Arts.

“Like all things, you need special people in your life that support you and want you to do well,” said Fichtner. “When I told my mom that I’d like to move to New York City and become an actor there was never a hesitation from her, or question as to what was I thinking, or if I was crazy. My mother was absolutely supportive from the very first time I never mentioned it. She told me I could do anything and that’s what I did.”

Since that fateful journey, Fichtner has appeared in Entourage, Prison Break, was the bank manager in The Dark Knight, was Darren MacElroy in Blades of Glory, Captain Knauer in The Longest Yard, was Attorney Ken Rosenberg in Grand Theft Auto video games, Colonel Willie Sharp in Armageddon, Danny’s father in Pearl Harbor, was in Grace Under Fire, and As the World Turns to name a few. Recently, he was in the accountant in Drive Angry with Nicholas Cage.

“I am someone who tends to pick roles that mean a lot to me,” said Fichtner. “I don’t take just any job. I like to take things that I think are really challenging, interesting. Do I have a favorite role? I really don’t decide to do anything unless I really want to do it, so I have a lot of favorite roles. Usually when something comes along that I find really exciting and challenging I want to do it and there are many of them. One of the highlights was a film with Jeff Bridges, The Amateurs. Black Hawk Down, The Perfect Storm and Contact were all roles that were challenging and I was very excited to be a part of them. The Perfect Storm and Black Hawk Down were my favorites because they were based on true stories. There is a different sort of journey when you’re playing something based on a true story because they are real events with real people and in these particular films there is a tragic element to both stories. There is a real commitment by the actor to make sure you really honor the real people that were involved in this and that is always a special circumstance to be in as an actor.”

Even though Fichtner is living on the other side of the country, he lives everyday through his morals, values and the upbringing instilled in him while growing up in Cheektowaga. He is humble and down to earth and speaks fondly of the Western New York area and his friends and family. His roots are still firmly planted in the area.

One can tell that Fichtner truly is a hometown boy. He still roots heavily for the Sabres and is equally a fan of the Buffalo Bills. Fichtner noted that if Buffalo had any other team he’d be a big fan of them too. He is always rooting for the University at Buffalo Bulls, Niagara, Canisius and every other college and sports team from Western New York.

“I love my hometown teams,” said Fichtner.

Unfortunately the L.A. Kings and Anaheim Ducks don’t always play the Buffalo Sabres every year, but when they do come to California, Fichtner is there with his son. Fichtner told of a story that when the Sabres played the Kings last year, he took his son, who wore a Thomas Vanek jersey to the game. After the game, Vanek signed his son’s jersey and Drew Stafford gave him a stick in which most of the team signed. That stick has a real place of honor in Fichtner’s house.

With the Sabres in the playoffs, Fichtner is excited about the future of the team.

“I hope I can met Terry Pegula someday and say thank you because he has everyone believing and he has a real commitment to turn this team around,” said Fichtner. “Since Pegula took over there is a real difference in the team. We have real young talent on the Sabres. I’ll be a fan of Ryan Miller until the last day he plays and then some. Stafford has had an amazing season this year too. We’re just catching the tip of the iceberg. The heart of the Sabres really comes through. This is just the beginning. Teams go through rhythms and the Sabres are on an upswing and everyone can feel it and the league knows it now. I don’t know if they are going to win the Stanley Cup this year, but they are going to be a force to reckon with, this year and ever year coming up in the foreseeable future. I have a lot to look forward to when it comes to my Sabres.”

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Thursday, April 14, 2011

Marijuana growing operation busted in Town of Hamburg

Today's Buffalo News and WNY News brought to you by Metrowny.com 

At 1:41 p.m. on Monday, April 11, the Town of Hamburg Police Narcotics Unit, Detectives Bureau and Officer Joseph O’Brien executed a search warrant for the rear residence at 3828 South Creek Road in the Town of Hamburg.

What the officers found when they entered the residence was over 5 pounds of marijuana which was packaged for sale located all through the house.

There were also two marijuana growing operations in the basement.

“These plants were in a meticulous growing operation,”  Captain Kevin Trask said. “This looks to be an operation where the suspects grew the plants themselves, harvested the leaves, dried them, packaged them and then sold them to customers.”

While executing the search warrant, which was signed by Hamburg Justice Walter Rooth, police found a Remington .22-caliber rifle with its stock cut off in a bedroom closet.

“As soon as anyone cuts off a stock of a rifle, it makes it illegal,” said Trask. “By doing this you have now made a weapon that is concealable,  a hand gun.”

According to police, inside the house they also found digital scales and other items that are believed to be used to process the marijuana.

The plants were taken to Central Police Services in the City of Buffalo, where they will be dried and then weighed. It is estimated that once this is done, there will be over 9 pounds of marijuana. The value of the marijuana was placed at $18,000.

Other items seized were six UV lights, six power supplies, a money counter, a safe, a computer, two cell phones and $900, which was found in a bedroom dresser drawer.

Taken into custody were Joseph M. Curcie, 21, and Ceara E. Hoffman, 19, both of the South Creek Road address, as well as Samuel B. Gardner, 20, of Buffalo.

Found in Gardner’s possession was a driver’s license of a Levittown resident, along with that person’s Bank of America Visa debit card, police said. The owner was being contacted by police.

Curcie and Hoffman were charged with felony second-degree criminal possession of a marijuana and felony third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, defaced for concealment.

Gardner was charged with felony second-degree criminal possession of marijuana.

All three suspects were arraigned before Hamburg Justice Gerald P. Gorman, who released them all on their own recognizance to return to court at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 28.

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Wednesday, April 13, 2011

'Summer of Transformation' for Buffalo's Waterfront

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The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation’s (ECHDC) Board of Directors today approved a slate of items that will begin to change the way that Western New Yorkers connect and interact with their waterfront. The board awarded a contract for a temporary extension of the Central Wharf, renewed its contract with Buffalo Place to provide programming at Erie Canal Harbor, which will result in more than 300 events on the Inner Harbor, approved a grant for repairs and restoration to the historic Buffalo Lighthouse and announced that a water taxi service will provide access to various locations along the Buffalo River and Inner and Outer Harbors, a first for the region. Looking towards the future, the board named the contractor who will oversee the engineering and design of a series of historically aligned public canals, due to open during the summer/fall of 2012.

The board awarded a contract for $196,500 to the C. Destro Development Co. of Buffalo for construction of a temporary extension to the Central Wharf. The extension will provide an additional 400 feet of waterfront access for cyclists and pedestrians, resulting in a continuous linkage to the Outer Harbor via the Ohio Street Corridor. The contractor is required to achieve 20 percent Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and 5 percent Women Business Enterprise (WBE) participation and has indicated confidence in meeting that workforce utilization goal.

Buffalo Place will again provide operations, maintenance and special event services at the Central Wharf this summer. Building on the successful programming already in place, ECHDC has committed to tripling the number of events offered on the Inner Harbor this summer. The Cultural Steering Committee, which has been led by Maureen Hurley since 2007, endorsed a series of cultural offerings designed to tell “The Story of Buffalo” in the very place where Buffalo began. These events will complement the existing events offered during the past two summer seasons.


New events will include:

•    The Buffalo Native Creek Festival
•    The Fish and Wildlife Experience Festival
•    Clinton’s Ditch (Historical drama detailing the building of the Erie Canal)
•    The Masten District Jazz Festival
•    Family programming from Explore & More Children’s Museum

“The people of Western New York have made it clear that what they want is connection to the water,” said Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown. “Our goal is to create linkages along the waterfront so that people can enjoy what’s already available, and to get a sense of the opportunities that are there.”

The water taxi, operated by the Queen City Ferry Company, will link the three distinct areas of Buffalo’s waterfront: the Inner Harbor, the Buffalo River and the Outer Harbor. Queen City is a private venture with Buffalo Sailing Adventures, whose owners have over 30 years combined experience operating passenger and educational vessels on waterfronts nationwide, and have a proven record of success in providing engaging, authentic, and professional public access to Buffalo’s waterways on the Spirit of Buffalo. The $96,500 agreement ensures three years of regular water ferry services (pedestrian and bicycle) with standardized routes and schedules to four locations:

•    The Commercial Slip (Inner Harbor)
•    River Fest Park (Buffalo River)
•    First Buffalo Marina (Inner Harbor)
•    Small Boat Harbor (Outer Harbor)

“As progress moves forward, we are reminded that the water is the anchor that draws growing crowds.  Public participation in this process and the actions of the board ensures that families and tourists will visit more often and stay longer as there will be more access and programming,” said Congressman Brian Higgins, who noted the projects approved today are supported by funding secured through the relicensing settlement with the New York Power Authority.  “Restaurants, restrooms, a ferry that connects an expanded commercial slip boardwalk to a series of pedestrian paths along the transformed Outer Harbor Parkway, and increased activities brought to us thanks to the experienced leadership of Buffalo Place are creating the destination that the people have demanded and certainly deserve.” 


Demonstrating its commitment to preserving our waterfront’s heritage, ECHDC approved a grant of $170,700 for the repair and restoration of the Buffalo Lighthouse. Built in 1833, the lighthouse stands at the mouth of the Buffalo River and is so identified with Buffalo that it was incorporated into the City’s seal. The structure currently sits on federal land owned by the U.S. Coast Guard. Access to the site was restricted in the wake of the September 11 attacks. Congressman Brian Higgins secured over $6 million for reconfiguration of the Coast Guard facilities to allow public access to the area around the historic lighthouse.  Construction is expected to begin soon on the grounds and the masonry repair and stonework is being completed in anticipation of the return of visitors to the site this fall.

C&S Companies of Buffalo will provide architectural and engineering design services for the historically aligned public canal system which will be constructed on the Aud Block, in accordance with the terms of a $1.7 million contract awarded today. Construction on the canals will begin later this year and will open during the summer/fall of 2012.

In other business, ECHDC approved its 2012 Operating Budget and named Empire State Development Counsel Leecia Eve as Corporation Counsel.

Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation is a subsidiary agency of Empire State Development Corporation whose vision is to revitalize Western New York’s waterfront and restore economic growth to Buffalo based on the region’s legacy of pride, urban significance and natural beauty.

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